Acharya Prashant explains that scriptures are primarily written for the human ego. Their fundamental purpose is to alleviate the internal suffering and agitation that individuals experience. He defines a scripture as any work that assists in the dissolution or calming of the ego. These texts were created out of selfless love by those who had attained peace, serving as a guide for others to transcend their limited intellect and suffering. He distinguishes between scripture-ordained austerity and mind-imagined austerity. Scripture-ordained austerity is a form of discipline that frees an individual from their regular, ongoing suffering. Conversely, mind-imagined austerity is a product of the ego and limited intelligence. It is compared to trying to extinguish a fire with fuel, as it employs the same flawed logic that caused the suffering to attempt a cure, ultimately leading to increased pride and attachment. Regarding charity, Acharya Prashant suggests that for those at lower levels of consciousness, giving is essentially an act of renunciation or discarding what is harmful. He advises against using the search for a worthy recipient as a pretext to avoid letting go of ego-driven burdens. As a seeker evolves, charity transforms into the sharing of consciousness. He describes three types of charity: Tamasic, which harms the recipient; Rajasic, which is performed with the expectation of a return; and Sattvic, which involves sharing knowledge. Ultimately, a realized being's existence becomes a continuous act of love and giving.
